How Much Does A Hernia Surgery Cost In Singapore?

The general cost breakdown for hernia treatment are as follow, for consultation, it will be $150 and for the procedure itself, it ranges from $3200 to $8000 (Based on MOH fee guidelines). Depending on your health insurance coverage, the cost might differ as well.

How Long Does It Take To Perform A Hernia Surgery In Singapore?

The surgery usually takes about 60 minutes to 90 minutes. Depending on your post-surgery condition, you might be discharged on the same day or have an overnight stay in the hospital.

Is Hernia Surgery In Singapore Painful?

For most cases, It is common to experience mild to moderate pain post-surgery. You will be prescribed antibiotics and painkillers during the recovery period.

What Should I Avoid After Hernia Surgery In Singapore?

Avoid engaging in any activities that cause strain to your body. Strain can be from carrying light groceries, bags and even house chores. Do check back with your surgeon on your recovery progress from time to time.

What Is The Difference Between Laparoscopic Hernia Repair And Open Hernia Repair?

In general, laparoscopic hernia repair is more difficult to perform and the equipment costs more than open hernia repair. The failure rate may also be higher compared to open surgery. However, because smaller incisions are made, there is less pain after surgery and patients tend to recover faster. Both types of surgery require a mesh. The infection rate for laparoscopic surgery may also be lower.

What Is The Surgery Of Choice If I Have Hernia On Both Sides (Bilateral Hernias)?

In general, the procedure of choice would be laparoscopic hernia repair for hernias on both sides. This is because both hernias can be operated on using the same incisions, hence there is less pain compared to two incisions on each side for an open inguinal hernia.

What Happens If I Get A Recurrence Of The Hernia?

The surgeon will usually offer surgery from a different approach to repair the recurrent hernia. If the initial surgery was open hernia repair, then the subsequent surgery will be laparoscopic repair and vice versa.

Hernia Treatment, Surgery And Cost In Singapore

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Introduction

Usually developed between the chest and pelvis, it can be painful and uncomfortable to live with a hernia. However, it can be treated by hernia surgery in Singapore if discovered earlier.

Dr QM Leong provides several advanced hernia surgeries, which are proven to be highly effective. Find out more on this page on hernia surgery cost in Singapore and the surgery procedures for hernia surgery.

Understanding hernia treatment and surgery

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ, such as a part of your intestine, pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue (abdominal wall) that holds it in place. The most common symptom of a hernia is the observation or appearance of a bulge or lump in the affected area.

Most hernias occur in the abdominal area between the chest and hips, while some hernias can also appear in the upper thigh and groyne areas. They are usually caused by activities that put too much pressure and strain on the abdomen over a long period of time. This can range from heavy lifting, excessive straining during bowel movements, or even chronic coughing. Being overweight also increases the risk of getting a hernia.

In Singapore, hernia treatment options vary depending on the type, size, and severity of the hernia, as well as the patient’s overall health. In mild cases, non-surgical hernia treatments can help manage symptoms. However, large and painful hernias may require repair surgery.

Symptoms Of Hernia

A visible bulge in the affected area
Pain or discomfort, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting
A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
In severe cases, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty passing stools

Hernias often have no symptoms and are not immediately life-threatening. However, they do not resolve on their own. Over time, some hernias can cause pain and discomfort and may lead to serious complications. In such cases, surgery is necessary to prevent these complications from becoming life-threatening. Recognize signs of hernias and practical approaches for management to better navigate your health decisions.

Common Types Of Hernia

Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernias occur when fatty tissue or a part of your bowel protrudes through into your groin above your inner thigh.

This is the most common type of hernia and it mainly affects men. It’s often associated with ageing and repeated strain on the tummy.

It is further classified into Direct and Indirect inguinal hernias. Direct hernias are less likely to cause complications while indirect inguinal hernias have a higher risk of bowel complications.

Femoral Hernias

Femoral hernias also happen when fatty tissue or part of your bowel pokes through into your groin above your inner thigh. It is often mistaken as an inguinal hernia. Femoral hernias are much less common than inguinal hernias and tend to affect more women than men. Femoral hernias have the highest risks of bowel complications and should always be offered surgery.

Like inguinal hernias, femoral hernias are also associated with ageing and repeated strain on the tummy.

Umbilical Hernias

Umbilical hernias occur when fatty tissue or part of your bowel pokes through your abdomen near your belly button (umbilicus).

In adults, it is often due to previous umbilical incisions (laparoscopic surgery), pregnancy and obesity.

How We Assess A Hernia

Hernias are assessed by an examination of the lump. Sometimes an ultrasound scan may be required to confirm the diagnosis or assess the extent of the problem.

A number of factors will be considered when deciding whether surgery is appropriate, including:

The type of hernia – some types of hernia (Femoral>Indirect>Direct) are more likely to become strangulated or cause a bowel obstruction than others

The content of your hernia – if the hernia contains a part of your bowel or other tissue, there may be a risk of strangulation or obstruction

Your symptoms and the impact on your daily life – surgery may be recommended if your symptoms are severe or getting worse, or if the hernia is affecting your quality of life

Your health in general– surgery may be too much of a risk if your general health is poor

How Soon Should I Undergo For Hernia Surgery In Singapore

Before considering proceeding with hernia surgery in Singapore. You should go to your nearest A&E immediately if you have a hernia and you develop any of the following symptoms:

Sudden, severe pain
Vomiting
Fever
Difficulty passing motion or gas
The hernia becomes firm or tender, or cannot be pushed back in

These symptoms could mean that either:

The blood supply to the bowel in the hernia has become cut off (strangulation)
A piece of bowel has entered the hernia and become blocked (obstruction)

These are medical emergencies and need to be treated immediately. Discover how hernia treatment options can address changes in bowel movements and discomfort.

Contact us today to make an appointment, we will advise accordingly based on your condition and decide if a hernia repair procedure is necessary.

Types of hernia surgery in Singapore

here are 2 main ways how hernia surgery in Singapore are commonly carried out:

Open Hernia Surgery

Open hernia surgery is a traditional approach to repairing hernias, where a single, larger incision is made in the area of the hernia. During this procedure, the hernia surgeon has direct access to the herniated tissue and the surrounding muscles.

The primary steps of open hernia surgery involve making an incision over the site of the hernia, carefully pushing the protruding tissue or organ back into its correct position within the abdomen, and then repairing the weakened muscle wall to prevent recurrence.

Recovery from open hernia surgery generally involves a few weeks of rest and limited activity to allow the body to heal properly.

Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery is a minimally invasive technique that has become increasingly popular due to its benefits of reduced pain, quicker recovery, and smaller scars compared to traditional open surgery.

Through small incisions, the surgeon inserts a laparoscope, which is a thin tube equipped with a light and a high-definition camera. The laparoscope provides a magnified view of the internal structures on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see the hernia and surrounding tissues. Additional specialised surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions to perform the repair.

Why you should visit us for hernia surgery

Dr QM Leong is an experienced colorectal specialist with expertise in hernia repair and treatment in Singapore. With his knowledge and skills, he will accurately diagnose your condition, identifying any signs or common symptoms of a hernia. Based on his thorough evaluation, Dr Leong will determine the most appropriate medical treatment or surgical procedure for your needs.

We are fully committed to providing a pleasant experience, comprehensive hernia treatment, and quality patient care. If you have any questions about the surgical procedures or hernia surgery costs in Singapore, please make an appointment with us today.

Frequently asked questions

How do I prepare for hernia surgery?

To prepare for hernia surgery in Singapore, follow your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, which may include fasting, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for a friend or family member to care for you after the procedure. You should also inform your doctor about any medical conditions or allergies you have.

What is the recovery time for hernia surgery?

For open hernia surgery in Singapore, recovery typically takes about four to six weeks, while laparoscopic surgery may allow for a quicker recovery of two to three weeks. Your surgeon will provide the proper guidelines for your recovery.

What is the average cost of hernia surgery?

The average cost of hernia surgery in Singapore can vary across different surgeons and hospitals. On average, the hernia surgery cost in Singapore ranges from SGD 5,000 to SGD 15,000.

Is hernia surgery cost covered by health insurance?

Many health insurance plans in Singapore cover hernia surgery cost, but coverage details can vary. Do check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage extent, co-payments, and pre-authorisation requirements.

What is a hernia, and what causes it?

A hernia happens when an internal body part pushes through a weak part of the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. Common causes of hernia in Singapore include heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, pregnancy, and previous surgeries.

What should I expect during a consultation with a hernia specialist in Singapore?

During a consultation, the hernia specialist will check your medical history and do a physical examination. If necessary, they may order imaging tests. The hernia specialist will discuss your symptoms, diagnose the type of hernia, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

How does a hernia specialist diagnose a hernia?

In Singapore, a hernia specialist diagnoses a hernia through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests. During the physical exam, the doctor feels for a bulge in the affected area. Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI can provide detailed images to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity.

What surgical techniques does the hernia surgeon specialise in?

A hernia surgeon in Singapore typically specialises in both open and laparoscopic hernia repair techniques.

What makes a surgeon qualified to perform hernia surgery?

A qualified hernia surgeon in Singapore has extensive training and experience in general surgery, with specific expertise in hernia repair. They should be MOH-accredited and have a proven track record of successful hernia surgeries.

What is the difference between open and laparoscopic hernia repair?

In Singapore, open hernia repair involves making a single large incision to access and repair the hernia. In contrast, laparoscopic hernia repair requires several small incisions and a laparoscope to guide the repair, offering benefits such as reduced pain, quicker recovery, and smaller scars.

How long does a typical hernia repair in Singapore procedure take?

A typical hernia repair in Singapore procedure takes about one to two hours, depending on the type and complexity of the hernia and the surgical technique used.

How do I know if my hernia needs surgical treatment?

Your hernia may require surgical treatment if it causes persistent pain or discomfort, grows in size, or leads to complications such as incarceration or strangulation. Your hernia specialist in Singapore will assess your condition and recommend whether surgery is necessary.

How do I manage pain associated with a hernia?

Pain associated with a hernia can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, avoiding heavy lifting, wearing supportive garments, and following your doctor’s advice on lifestyle changes. If the pain persists, consult your hernia specialist in Singapore for further evaluation and treatment options.

About Dr QM Leong

Colorectal & Hernia Surgeon in Singapore

Dr Leong is a general and colorectal surgeon in Singapore who graduated from the University of London in 2000. He obtained his membership to the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2003 and started working in Tan Tock Seng Hospital in 2003. He started his Advanced Specialist Training in 2005 and passed his fellowship exams in 2008. Dr Leong was awarded the prestigious MOH HMDP scholarship to train under Prof Kim Seon Hahn in Korea University for Laparoscopic and Robotic colorectal surgery in 2010.

Dr Leong is amongst a handful of hernia and colorectal surgeons in Singapore who practice Single Incision Laparoscopic surgery. This is a technical and complex procedure that is minimally invasive, speeds up recovery, and confers excellent cosmetic results. Dr Leong also routinely trains basic and advanced specialist trainees in laparoscopic surgery, and regularly proctors consultant surgeons in complex colorectal cases.

Beyond laparoscopic surgery, Dr Leong also performs a repertoire of minimally invasive General Surgery procedures. He is also an experienced endoscopist with more than 10000 procedures, performing diagnostic and therapeutic scopes for elective and emergency surgical conditions. He performs direct access colonoscopies and oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy for patients and will strive to perform the procedures on the same day if possible for patients’ convenience.

Insurance

Our surgery is on the panel of most of the major insurance companies and if you are covered by corporate insurance, you may be entitled to a cashless visit to our clinic.